A systematic review of nearly 50 observational studies and clinical trials has revealed that plant based diets are associated with lower cholesterol. Published in Nutrition Review the study found that those eating plant based vegan diets had decreased total cholesterol, with lower levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol. The authors, Dr. Yoko Yokoyama M.P.H, Susan Levin M.S., R.D., and Dr. Neal Barnard F.A.C.C, reviewed 49 studies across the globe focusing on the long term effects of a plant based diet.

“We hope to empower patients with new research about the long-term cardiovascular health benefits of a vegetarian diet, which include a reduced risk of a heart attack, stroke, and premature death.”

Facebook

Twitter

High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, known as “bad cholesterol,” have been associated with an increased risk of developing coronary heart disease (CHD). The review found through observational studies a plant based diet is associated with a 22.9 mg/dL reduction in LDL cholesterol and a 3.6 mg/dL reduction in HDL cholesterol, compared to those following an omnivorous diet.

In clinical trials, a plant based diet lowers LDL cholesterol by 12.2 mg/dL and reduces HDL cholesterol by 3.4 mg/dL, compared to control groups following an omnivorous, low-fat, calorie-restricted, or a conventional diabetes diet.

“Consumption of vegetarian diets, particularly vegan diets, is associated with lower levels of plasma lipids, which could offer individuals and healthcare professionals an effective option for reducing the risk of heart disease or other chronic conditions. ” The authors reported.

Facebook

Twitter

They also noted that hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) is often under diagnosed and as such under treated. Just a 10% increase in diagnosis and treatment of hyperlipidemia could prevent 8,000 deaths each year. As recommended by the National Cholesterol Education Programme, greater assessment of heart disease risk combined with lifestyle and dietary recommendations by medical professionals, and ongoing monitoring could prevent approximately 20,000 heart attacks, 10,000 cases of coronary heart disease, and save almost $3 billion in medical costs each year in the U.S alone.

“To make any form of health care work and to truly power economic mobility, we have to get healthy,” says co-author, Levin. “The first place to start is by building meals around nutrient-packed, plant-based foods, which fit into nearly every cultural template, taste preference, and budget.”

A Little Note from Us

At LIVEKINDLY we work tirelessly to produce passionate, high quality daily content for our thousands of followers and web visitors. We absolutely love what we do and hope you do too. Even a small donation can make a big difference to us, and help us continue to make a big difference to the world we live in – for our humanity, our home and those who share it with us. We truly value your support.

ABOUT LIVEKINDLY

To livekindly means to live in a way which shows appreciation to our humanity, our home and those who share it with us.

Inspired by the notion that mother nature’s intricate design is arguably flawless, the LK community have come together to build a home for informative and thought-provoking content, focusing on sustainable and compassionate living.

If you’d like to get more involved and support our mission, you can donate here, or apply to become a contributor here.